The NEW YORKER has a contest where readers are invited to submit captions to cartoons. I’ve entered this several times, have never been chosen as a finalist and usually think the captions they do select are as lame as Bazooka Bubblegum comics.
But it gave me an idea.
As a grand experiment, about a year ago I instituted a comedy writers’ punch line contest. Except I have nothing to give away and therefore don’t want to pick a winner. But I will offer some feedback to the entries.
Based on how much fun this proved to be and the quality of the entries I decided to go forth on my other hair-brained idea, the Sitcom Room seminar.
So here’s how it works: I’ll give you essentially the same set-up for four different style shows. It’s not just writing jokes, it’s about tailoring to the characters and style of the show. Do as many or few of the shows as you want. Submit your entries in the comments section.
Ready?
VERSION ONE: MY NAME IS EARL
Earl wakes up and realizes he’s not in his own bed. He says?????
VERSION TWO: CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM
Larry wakes up and realizes he’s not in his own bed. He says?????
VERSION THREE: 30 ROCK
Liz wakes up and realizes she’s not in her own bed. She says????
VERSION FOUR: FAMILY GUY
Peter wakes up and realizes he’s not in his own bed. He says????
Have fun. Be funny.
No comments:
Post a Comment